In 2024, Southern Europe showcases a fantastic list of best cities to live, where life is more than a picturesque postcard; it’s about community, innovation, and tradition. Every year, My Dolce Casa looks at the latest quality of life index from Numbeo, which includes costs, safety, environment, property prices and climate ratings, to see what cities claimed the top spots as best places to live in the South of Europe.
For the third year in a row, Valencia takes the number one spot as the best place to live in Southern Europe. The popular Spanish gem isn’t just a city of architectural marvels; it’s a haven for residents who cherish its perfect climate, tech job opportunities, and the relaxing Mediterranean coast.
Madrid, at second place, is Spain’s political heart and largest city. Life here is a daily fiesta of cultural happenings, sprawling green spaces, and an enduring siesta tradition that defines Madrileño living.
Porto, ranking third, offers more than just a snapshot by the river; it’s a compact urban experience where traditional commerce and digital startups buzz amid a landscape steeped in history.
Fourth-ranked, Croatian coastal town Split marries local heritage with a pulsating cosmopolitan lifestyle, where living in a Roman Emperor’s palace’s shadow is a daily reality, alongside contemporary amenities and a seaside vibe.
Ljubljana, Slovenia, in fifth place, is a green city where residents enjoy cultural sophistication, clean streets, and community-driven spaces at a low cost of living.
Zagreb, at number six, offers its citizens a cosmopolitan yet affordable lifestyle, rich in café culture, arts, and a blend of Balkan and Central European charm.
Seventh-place Lisbon is not just a popular tourist destination; it’s a burgeoning scene for tech enthusiasts and those seeking a balance between historic beauty and modern living.
Barcelona’s eighth position is a testament to a city where life is lived outdoors, from its vibrant startup scene to the sandy beaches that offer a daily escape from the urban rush. Ninth-placed Turin is a hub of automotive innovation and Italian culture, where the daily grind is sweetened by a rich espresso and the view of the Alps.
Lastly, Novi Sad, at number ten, offers a high quality of life with its rich cultural scene, affordable cost of living, and inclusive community. The city balances modernity with tradition, making it appealing for students, expats, and digital nomads seeking a vibrant yet laid-back urban experience.
The top 10 best places to live in Southern Europe in 2024
1. Valencia, Spain
- Population: 800,000
- Location: Eastern Spain
- Best score in: property price to income ratio, climate
- Monthly average rent: $1,090
- Average home price: $468,000
2. Madrid, Spain
- Population: 800,000
- Location: Central Spain
- Best score in: safety, healthcare
- Monthly average rent: $1,460
- Average home price: $842,000
3. Porto, Portugal
- Population: 230,000
- Location: Northwest Portugal
- Best score in: healthcare, climate
- Monthly average rent: $1,380
- Average home price: $706,000
4. Split, Croatia
- Population: 160,000
- Location: Western Croatia
- Best score in: cost of living, climate
- Monthly cost of living: $700-$1,200
5. Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Population: 300,000
- Location: Central Slovenia
- Best score in: pollution, safety
- Monthly cost of living per person: $700-$1,400
6. Zagreb, Croatia
- Population: 800,000
- Location: Northern Croatia
- Best score in: cost of living, safety
- Monthly cost of living per person: $800-$1,350
7. Lisbon, Portugal
- Population: 550,000
- Location: Western Portugal
- Best score in: climate, healthcare
- Monthly average rent: $1,720
- Average home price: $1,112,000
8. Barcelona, Spain
- Population: 1,620,000
- Location: Northeast Spain
- Best score in: climate, healthcare
- Monthly average rent: $1,680
- Average home price: $852,000
9. Turin, Italy
- Population: 890,000
- Location: Northern Italy
- Best score in: property price to income ratio, traffic
- Monthly average rent: $860
- Average home price: $376,000
10. Novi Sad, Serbia
- Population: 300,000
- Location: Northern Serbia
- Best score in: cost of living, traffic
- Monthly cost of living per person: $600-$1,000
Data sources:
- Ranking scores and cost of living: Numbeo
- Population: Google
- Rent prices: My Dolce Casa
- Home prices: My Dolce Casa
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